Form V students' attitudes towards technical subjects

Abstract

The purpose of this study was: (1) to measure Maltese Form V students' attitude towards technical subjects, and to determine whether or not there were differences in attitude between students of different gender and school type, (2) to determine those persons that influence students to follow a technical course. A purposely constructed questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale was answered by 236 Form V students (119 boys and 117 girls), that are a representative sample of the student population attending the three different school types that provide secondary education in Malta. Four attitude constructs represent the attitude object, namely, (1) Perception of Technical Subjects, (2) Social Implications of Technical Careers, (3) Career Aspirations in the Technical Sector, and (4) Interest in Technical Subjects. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques, including frequency counts and t-tests. This study revealed that all groups exhibited a favourable global attitude towards technical subjects. Significant differences in the level of favourable attitude towards the attitude object resulted between groups. Parents, peers and personal interest were the most influential sources to students who decided to follow technical courses. From the reasons given by students for their interest or disinterest to follow a technical course, one concludes that students lack information about technical courses and careers. A corrective educational policy could counteract the lack of awareness of technological subjects, improve institutional arrangements and qualifications such that technical education becomes a more worthwhile educational venture.